Sun-Dried Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
These Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect comfort food - creamy, cheesy, and full of bold Italian flavors. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich ricotta and sun-dried tomato mixture, baked in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella.Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or special occasions, this dish is easy to make ahead and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Filling:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells about 24 shells
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes finely chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
For the Sauce:
- 2 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Ricotta Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, ½ cup mozzarella, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the egg to help bind the filling.
Step 3 – Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 4 – Stuff the Shells
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of ricotta mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5 – Add Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan.
Step 6 – Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7 – Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm and enjoy!